TPP Treaty provision requires scrutiny

Maori will struggle to have faith in Government undertakings regarding the TPP because the Crown continues to fall short of its obligations when interpreting the Treaty, says Labour’s Maori Development Spokesperson Nanaia Mahuta.

"The Government has said that the Treaty is protected and the TPP will not affect the Crowns obligation to Maori. If that's the case then they should send that part of the text to the Maori Affairs Select Committee for greater scrutiny.

"The TPP agreement will be sent to the Foreign Affairs Select Committee for scrutiny, and while it cannot be changed, there will be an opportunity to consider the implications of the agreement.

"Iwi Maori are contributing to the economic prosperity and social advancement of New Zealand. At the heart of that contribution is a Maori world view based on traditional knowledge.

"By sending the Treaty section to the Maori Affairs Select Committee, the Government will be transparent in assurances to Maori on the TPP, says Nanaia Mahuta.